Built in 1969 by philanthropists Roland and Ramona Sahm, the Del Dios Ranch estate in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., is currently the most expensive home on the market in the San Diego area ($92 million), and it personifies the best of Southern California charm. Designed by Fred Briggs, the wood, concrete, and glass structure is an airy, contemporary take on a traditional, low-pitched ranch house. Located only half an hour from downtown San Diego, the 210-acre estate features 40 acres of orange groves and 360-degree views of an adjacent lake.

The 8,000-square-foot home also showcases sweeping ceilings, radiant-heated marble floors, and redwood accents that were milled on the property. An open-concept kitchen boasts skylights, an enormous island, and plentiful counter space, while an arboretum-style living room is dominated by a monolithic stone fireplace. One wing of the house is devoted entirely to an indoor swimming pool, spa, and full bar while three large bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom, occupy the first floor. The master suite privately sits on the second floor by itself.

The Sahms were longtime horse enthusiasts (they owned professional Thoroughbreds including Super Diamond, who won a string of races in the 1980s), so naturally the estate is home to state-of-the-art equestrian facilities and a six-stall barn. Other outdoor amenities include a tennis court, jogging and biking trails, a guesthouse, and lush gardens. (Inquiries: Linda Sansone, 858.775.6356, linda@lindasansone.com; Linda Daniels, 858.361.5561, lindadaniels@willisallen.com; christiesrealestate.com)